Ireland
CASE STUDIES
EXCELLENCE IN ACTION
Real-world examples of successful major events held in Dublin and Belfast
GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE – DUBLIN Event: Annual EMEA Conference for a Leading US-based Technology Company Attendees: 1,200 delegates from 25 countries Venue: The Convention Centre Dublin( CCD)
This major technology conference exemplifies how Dublin leverages its position as a European tech hub to attract international business events. The conference objectives included convening EMEA staff and partners for strategy sessions and technical workshops while delivering an immersive experience blending business with authentic Irish culture.
The CCD was selected for its iconic architecture, flexibility, and central location in Dublin ' s Docklands. The event structure featured plenary sessions in the main auditorium with state-of-the-art production and live streaming capabilities, multiple parallel breakout sessions and workshops, and a dedicated exhibition area for partner showcases and product demonstrations. Cultural and social elements enhanced the delegate experience, including a welcome reception at the Guinness Storehouse offering a taste of Ireland ' s heritage with live music and local cuisine, and a gala dinner at a historic city venue.
Sustainability played a key role in the event planning, with the CCD ' s ISO 14001 environmental certification and commitment to best practices aligning with the client ' s CSR goals. The venue ' s event team provided seamless logistics and technical support throughout.
The conference achieved over 95 % positive feedback on venue, logistics, and overall experience. Events of this scale at the CCD generate over € 30 million for the local economy, supporting hotels, restaurants, and local suppliers. The success of the conference enhanced the company ' s profile in the EMEA region, fostered new partnerships, and secured a commitment to return for future events.
EUROPEAN AEROSPACE INDUSTRY SUMMIT – BELFAST Event: UK Space Conference 2023 Attendees: 1,250 – 1,700 international and national delegates Venue: ICC Belfast
The UK Space Conference 2023 demonstrated Belfast ' s growing capabilities in hosting major international scientific and industry events. The conference united UK and international space communities to discuss trends, innovation, and collaboration while showcasing Northern Ireland ' s growing capabilities in aerospace, defence, and space technology.
ICC Belfast provided full venue exclusivity, utilising all major spaces including the main auditorium, exhibition halls, breakout rooms, and public areas across 3,500 sqm of exhibition space. The conference structure included plenary sessions and keynotes in the main auditorium with live streaming to satellite stages, supported by ICC Belfast ' s award-winning production team.
Feature zones enhanced the delegate experience, including a Spotlight Stage sponsored by Rolls Royce for short keynotes and live streaming of plenary sessions, an Innovation Zone highlighting cutting-edge research and technology with displays such as the Airbus ExoMars Rover, a Small Business Zone providing a platform for start-ups and SMEs, and a dedicated Meeting Hub for B2B networking.
Community engagement extended the event ' s impact, with over 650 local school pupils attending interactive exhibits and workshops to encourage STEM careers. Public engagement was further boosted by a 72ft replica of the LauncherOne rocket displayed in Belfast city centre as part of the ' Space for Everyone ' tour.
The conference facilitated new trade opportunities, highlighted local firms ' achievements in the space sector, and fostered partnerships between Northern Ireland and global aerospace leaders. With a direct economic impact of £ 1.7 million through visitor spend and 4,446 bed nights for the local hospitality sector, the event established Belfast as a credible host for major international aerospace and space events, cementing its reputation and supporting the growth of the local space cluster.
These case studies illustrate how Ireland ' s leading venues and cities deliver world-class business events, combining technical excellence, sectoral expertise, and a commitment to delegate experience and economic impact.
CASE STUDY: THE SUSTAINABLE CONFERENCE REVOLUTION
The European Sustainable Business Summit, held annually in Dublin, exemplifies Ireland ' s leadership in green events. This three-day conference brings together 1,500 sustainability professionals from across Europe and beyond, showcasing best practices in sustainable event management while addressing critical environmental challenges. The event implements a comprehensive sustainability strategy, including renewable energy sourcing, zero-waste catering, digital-first content delivery, carbon-neutral transport options, and community engagement initiatives. Detailed impact reporting provides transparency and accountability, with each year ' s performance informing improvements for future editions. Beyond its own operational practices, the summit has catalysed broader change throughout Ireland ' s business events sector by demonstrating the commercial viability of high-sustainability events and creating demand for green services among suppliers and venues. n
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